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MESSAGE
FROM THE CO-ORDINATOR (March 2010)
Greetings
to All
As we close another financial year, it is often a time to reflect. Our year here
with P.A.T.H.S. has been yet another one of growth, and development. This is very
honouring of our work and our intentions.
I would like to take this opportunity to say that none o f this would happen if
it were not for our Co-ordinator Carolina, the Trust, the team and all of you. Carolina
though has been and continues to be the driving force behind P.A.T.H.S.. She reaches
further, stretches out to make new contacts, and dreams new dreams. Carolina spends
hours preparing seminars and workshops and papers, to present trainings or attend
conferences and talking with people. Thank you Carolina.
Financially, we are holding well even in the current climate of this turbulent year.
We have continued to be supported by the Frimley Foundation and Springhill Charitable
Trust, the Canterbury Community Trust, COGS and the Carbeth Trust, and I wish to
acknowledge their generosity in their ongoing support. Also another big thank you
to all our Friends of P.A.T.H.S. who continue to financially support us; your help
is invaluable to us. Thank you all.
In the financial area, I wish to say a huge thank you also to all the work Joan
Blatchford does for us with the different funding applications. To continue to do
this task for us each year is such a gift. Heartfelt thanks to Peter Stribling who
has given his time and skill freely over the past 12 years as auditor for our accounts.
This year we welcome and thank to Brian O’Malley for his willingness to take on
that role. And last but by no means least Phil Gnad - you have been our treasurer
throughout, keep us on track, working with those figures and sums and coming up
trumps each time! We thank you for the wonderful work you continue to do for us.
Last year we introduced a Marketing person to our team, and we continue to enjoy
her work and the results of her outreach to the community for us. Marie Rossiter
has introduced us into many new areas, and encouraged us to be out in the community,
attending Women’s gatherings such as “Just for Her’ at the Elim Church, Burnside
and the Aranui Health Day. Thank you Marie for all you do, and all the new contacts
you make for us. This past year we have been able to add to our team an administration
person, which has been very exciting. We welcome Jayne Gormley, and are very aware
of what a huge asset she is to us. Jayne provides such support in the work that
we are really blessed to have her with us. It is therefore, exciting times, that
the work load is now being shared so much more, which means that Carolina can now
spend more of her time, in research, trainings and talks, and networking.
Thank you Team. Our counselling team continues to develop. Karen Holmes who was
on placement with us continues to see clients even though she has finished FROM
THE CHAIRPERSON her training. We have recently welcomed Kathy Hughes on part-time
placement from Vision College. It is great to see new faces on team. Thank you to
Heather Hulse who remains faithful to us and also runs the Support Group with Carolina,
and Jean Bruce who remains in the wings. I would like to acknowledge Carolina’s
longstanding counselling work, and her supervision of the counsellors.
There has been a slight increase in the number of people seeking our help, a demand
we have been able to meet with our increasing team of counsellors. We are still
in the process of exploring the development of a National Network of P.A.T.H.S.
counsellors and need to brainstorm with interested counsellors around how this could
work. Watch this space. Carolina has also been invited to assist with facilitation
of Rachel’s Vineyard Retreats which is another way those affected by abortion can
address feelings and issues associated with that experience and come to a place
of peace.
In the world of training, we facilitated two post abortion seminars, one in Hamilton
and one here in Christchurch. The numbers tend to vary, and it would be encouraging
to see a few more attend. The feedback from attendees is always positive and they
feel it as been worthwhile. Carolina also ran a workshop at Vision College, and
presented a paper at the NZAC Conference. We have had our material at the Midwifery
Conference again, and Perinatal and Maternal Mortality workshop as a first this
year. It is exciting to see how much further we extend and reach out each year,
which supports one of our core aims, to raise awareness on the effects of, and the
need for support from, abortion.
We are very excited to announce that our AGM this year, is arranged for Monday 14th
June, and we have Professor David Fergusson coming to speak to us. It is a privilege
to have him with us. I encourage you to come along and hear what he has to share
around the research he has been involved in.
On preparing this report, it becomes clear that we are continuing to expand and
reach out further and further within New Zealand, which is very encouraging. We
are aware that the education side is increasing even more intensely than we originally
imagined. We will be continuing to address this within our Strategic Plan for next
year, in co-operation with our counselling, both face to face, referral to trained
counsellors in other areas of New Zealand, and the occasional on-line help. Our
service is in good health thanks to everyone involved. It is a privilege to write
this report, and realise just how much we are doing as volunteers and how deeply
beneficial our work is. May God bless us all as we continue our support and work
of P.A.T.H.S. over the next year.
Jan Brodie
ABOUT THE POST-ABORTION TRAUMA HEALING SERVICE
· Healing
facilitation -
we provide trained, empathetic, non-judgemental counselling-support for women and
men who have lost a preborn through abortion, either recent or in the past, offering
facilitation through a proven 10 Step Programme. The programme used is based
on former USA Victims of Choice Abortion Recovery Programme and is suited to both
those of a Christian faith or philosophy and those not.
· Facilitation
training - we
offer training in post-abortion loss and trauma and healing or recovery to counsellors,
therapists, social workers, clergy and chaplains, doctors, pastoral care people....
· Newsletter
& resources -
we produce a triannual newsletter and have some post-abortion resources available,
which are available upon request. Much of the information on this site is available
in our published booklet "The After Effects of Abortion - Insights into the Loss
and Trauma of Abortion", which is available for $NZ5.00 plus postage and handling.
Please contact us if you would like to be placed on
our mailing list or would like a copy / copies of our booklet.
· Education
and outreach -
one of our main aims is to educate people about the reality of post-abortion issues.
We offer talks to health, counselling and community groups. Our “Hope for the Hurting”
and “Abortion Loss and Trauma” presentations, explore the possible physical.
psychological and spiritual effects of abortion and needs of those adversely affected
or struggling afterwards. We seek opportunities to speak and raise awareness in
the community, hoping that those adversely affected by abortion might avail themselves
of help.
· Remembrance-Healing
services - we
have developed a sensitive uplifting remembrance-healing service for all those who
have experienced pregnancy loss, whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal
death, induced labour for foetal abnormality or abortion. We assist churches
or groups willing to host these services (See P.A.T.H.S. Events section below for
date of next remembrance-healing service).
· Support
Group - We have
launched the P.A.T.H.S. Support Group for those who have experienced an abortion,
whether recently or in the past. The group is facilitated by experienced and trained
post-abortion counsellors. It is a safe, caring and confidential place for people
to share around the very sensitive issues and feelings associated with an abortion
experience. We would also like to see support groups for men directly or indirectly
affected by abortion. Attempts so far to set up a MABA (Men Affected by Abortion)
Group have not met with success for want of a male facilitator willing to
be trained in post-abortion issues for men, and participants. In other countries
men are beginning to come together to share their experiences in support settings
and we believe it could be worthwhile here too.
· FRIENDS
of P.A.T.H.S. -
when people make a donation (of $10 or more) in support of our work they
automatically join F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of P.A.T.H.S. and receive our triannual
newsletter and notices about any of our special activities. Occasionally some of
our FRIENDS may volunteer to assist at gatherings, particularly in welcoming and
hospitality roles.
· Prayer
Network - we
have a network of people who pray for the needs of the organisation. Due to the
nature and depth of the healing work this kind of spiritual cover is invaluable.
Clients, even non-Christian clients, often appreciate being supported and uplifted
spiritually too.
· Networking
with other agencies or groups - we network with individuals and groups who are involved in the post-abortion
and related fields of research or ministry both in New Zealand and overseas. Issues
facing post-aborted women and men are universal.
·
Longer Term Goals
- Distribution of our
information booklet to libraries, education and health facilities
- Offering regular training
of facilitators/counsellors in all the main centers with a view to developing a
national netowrk of P.A.T.H.S. counsellors and support groups
- National Conference
- Memorial site in cemetery
or park
- MABA (Men Affected by
Abortion) Group
· Charitable
Trust - The P.A.T.H.S.
Charitable Trust was constituted in December 1997, in Christchurch, New Zealand.
P.A.T.H.S. is TOTALLY reliant on DONATIONS / GRANTS. We have been fortunate
to date to receive a few significant grants from a private trust and various donations
from individuals and groups supportive of our work, without which we would not exist
or be able to provide a service. If you would like to make a contribution small
or large please send a cheque or money order to our
postal address or if preferred an regular automatic payment can be arranged.
·
P.A.T.H.S. Funding - P.A.T.H.S. would like to extend a special thanks to
- The Frimley Foundation & Springhill Charitable Trust
- The Carbeth Trust
- The Canterbury Community Trust
- COGS (Community Organisations Grants Scheme)
- Tindall Foundation & Catholic Diocesan Welfare Fund
- All donors and FRIENDS of P.A.T.H.S.
for your financial contributions and support for the work and development
of P.A.T.H.S.
· P.A.T.H.S.
Team - We
are interested in hearing from people who may wish to become involved in some way.
It makes
a difference
As the
old man walked the beach at dawn,
he noticed a young man ahead of him picking up starfish and flinging them into the
sea.
Catching up with the youth, he asked him why he was doing this.
The answer was that the stranded starfish would die if left until the morning sun.
But the beach goes on for miles and there are millions of starfish countered the
other.
How can your effort make any difference?
The young man looked at the starfish in his hand and threw it to the safety of the
waves.
It makes a difference to this one, he said.
P.A.T.H.S.EVENTS or INITIATIVES for 2010
POST
ABORTION SEMINARS 2010
Abortion loss and trauma
is not well recognised.
Women and men can be adversely affected after a recent or past abortion. There is
still a taboo around talking about their experiences. Their stories need to be heard.
The healing journey after an abortion is unique to the individual but there are
key issues that need to be understood and worked through.
This seminar offers insights into post-abortion issues and offers steps for a process
of healing to equip you to accompany someone on their journey after abortion.
Seminars are facilitated by Carolina Gnad (Counsellor MNZAC, Trainer, Spiritual Director)
Carolina has a background
in nursing, works as a counsellor, supervisor and spiritual director in private
practice. Carolina is the founder and co-ordinator of P.A.T.H.S. (Post Abortion
Trauma Healing Service) in Christchurch. She has over ten years experience in training
around pregnancy and post abortion counselling. This seminar is suitable for counsellors,
social workers, pastors and ministers and pastoral care teams, nurses, doctors...
and anyone interested in postabortion issues and healing.
MODULE ONE: DAY ONE
A foundational day that covers topics including:
- possible impacts of abortion
- reasons for abortion
- risks for negative reactions
- men and abortion
- needs in healing and the role of the helper
- context of abortion in NZ
- attitudes and beliefs
- foetal development
MODULE TWO: DAY TWO
An overview of the 10 Step Recovery Programme. This gives insight into a process
to enable you to journey with those experiencing problems after their abortions.
It helps you to look at the person you are helping in the context of who they are,
their past and their lives, to explore what happened in and around becoming pregnant
and map out all aspects of the decision-making time. It journeys through the abortion
grief and a process of forgiveness, then looks at the need to develop a relationship
with the child, and moving on with life.
WHERE AND WHEN?
Wellington 24-25 April - hosted by Pregnancy Counselling Services
Venue: Voice for Life Office, 5th Floor, 3 Church St, Wellington
Cost: $120
Contact: Wendy 027 254 9222 or email w.nanai@clear.net.nz
for more information
Auckland 29-30 April - hosted by Manukau City Baptist Church
Venue: Life Care Counselling Centre, Manukau City Baptist Church
Cost: $150
Contact: Joy 09 278 8998 or 0274 785 861 or email
forwards@maxnet.co.nz for more information or to register.
Christchurch 27-28 May - hosted by P.A.T.H.S.
Venue: 86A Hastings Street West, Sydenham
Cost: $200 (waged) and $100 (unwaged or student)
Contact: Carolina 03 379 7710 or email
carolina@postabortionpaths.org.nz for registration form
Please note:
- Module One is a prerequisite for Module Two.
- Numbers are limited to enable time for discussion.
- Costs may vary per seminar location.
- Some venues BYO lunch.
“Attending a P.A.T.H.S. seminar in the first year of my Counselling Diploma was one
of the best decisions I ever made. The information and insight I received regarding
grief and the post abortion healing process have been very useful in many aspects
of my work.... As a Counsellor and Registered Nurse I appreciated the high professional
standard in which Carolina facilitated the seminar. I found the delivery was balanced,
informative and well formatted. It has proved for me to be an invaluable, ongoing
resource.”
Nicola Curtis
* * * * * * * * * *
P.A.T.H.S. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
14th June 2010 at 7.30pm
Venue: Petersgate Counselling Centre 29 Yaldhurst Rd, Upper Riccarton, Christchurch
Guest Speaker
Professor David Fergusson
Professor Fergusson is the Executive Director and founder of the Christchurch Health
and Development Study (CHDS). The CHDS is a longitudinal study of a birth cohort
of 1,265 children who have been studied from birth to age 25. Professor Fergusson
is the author of over 250 scientific papers, books and reports in the areas of child
health and development. Of particular interest for us is the research work around
Abortion in Young Women and Subsequent Mental Health
We will also be sharing around the forward directions of P.A.T.H.S.
This is a chance to meet our team and have a conversation.
Supper Provided.
RSVP to Jayne 03 379 7710 or email
carolina@postabortionpaths.org.nz by June 10
* * * * * * * * * *
SUPPORT
GROUP
2nd Wednesday of the month
at 7.30 pm
Ever had an abortion?
Know someone who has?
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Abortion loss and trauma can be isolating and emotional. The P.A.T.H.S. Support
Group is a friendly confidential place to share about your experience. Ongoing trained
support is available
For more information and venue details email
carolina@postabortionpaths.org.nz.
Read the support group newsletter article
P.A.T.H.S.
EVENTS ALREADY HELD IN 2010
February 12
REMEMBRANCE SERVICE, RANGIORA
P.A.T.H.S.
EVENTS HELD IN 2009
21 March
TE WAIORA GARDEN PARTY - P.A.T.H.S. Stall, CHRISTCHURCH
26 March 09
NZAC COLLOQUIUM - Present P.A.T.H.S.& facilitate discussion, CHRISTCHURCH
28 March
ASIA NZ OBSTETRICIANS/GYNAECOLOGISTS CONFERENCE - P.A.T.H.S. info, CHRISTCHURCH
08 April
RIGHT TO LIFE AGM - Carolina Gnad - Guest Speaker - P.A.T.H.S., CHRISTCHURCH
29-30 April
PROJECT RACHEL - P.A.T.H.S. Facilitation of a couple of workshops, HAMILTON
8-9 May
JUST 4 HER - WOMEN’S EXPO - P.A.T.H.S. information table, CHRISTCHURCH
28 May
REMEMBRANCE SERVICE, CHRISTCHURCH
8-9 October
POST ABORTION SEMINAR, Campbell Counselling Centre, CHRISTCHURCH
17-20 October
NZAC CONFERENCE - P.A.T.H.S. workshop, HAMILTON
29-30 October
POST-ABORTION COUNSELLING TRAINING - Project Rachel, HAMILTON
P.A.T.H.S.
EVENTS HELD IN 2008
Saturday March 15
REMEMBRANCE SERVICE, La Vida Centre, CHRISTCHURCH
Wednesday 3 September
AFTER ABORTION FORUM, Campbell Centre, CHRISTCHURCH
Friday September 19 - Saturday
September 20
POST ABORTION SEMINAR, Petersgate Counselling Centre, CHRISTCHURCH
Tuesday 21 October
REMEMBRANCE SERVICE, Linwood Baptist Church, CHRISTCHURCH
22 April - WORKSHOP (half
day), John Paul II Centre, CHRISTCHURCH
1-4 May - Attended, had
information table and represented P.A.T.H.s. at NZCCA (NZ Christian Counsellors
Conference), CHRISTCHURCH
10 May - TALK to group with
Anglican Ordination Programme, CHRISTCHURCH
PRESENTATION,
Anglican Clinical Pastoral Education group, CHRISTCHURCH
17-18 May - SEMINAR (2 days)
hosted by Pregnancy Counselling Services, GISBORNE
22 May - Attended & represented
P.A.T.H.S. at the Inaugural Cherish Network Meeting, AUCKLAND
20 July - TALK to women
at Reformed Church of Bishopdale, CHRISTCHURCH
1 August - WORKSHOP (full
day) for Counselling Programme, CPIT, CHRISTCHURCH
13 August - WORKSHOP (half
day) for student counsellors at Vision College, CHRISTCHURCH
12-14 September - Attended,
with information table, the Midwifery Conference, AUCKLAND
26 September - Speaker at
Voice for Life Conference, Auckland
29 October - Representative
for P.A.T.H.S. attended and distributed information at the Maternal Mental Health
Day, AUCKLAND
P.A.T.H.S.
EVENTS HELD IN CHRISTCHURCH 2007
Friday FEBRUARY 9th
- Radio Broadcast : Radio Station: Plains FM96.9
Tuesday FEBRUARY 13th
- Remembrance Service : Linwood Baptist Church
Friday November 2 -
Saturday November 3
POST ABORTION SEMINAR, Cashmere New Life Centre
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